Center for Endovascular Surgery - What is PAD?

Peripheral Artery Disease... and your well-being
As you grow older, you may experience pain, numbness, and fatigue in your legs - possible symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). PAD results from clogs of fatty plaque in the blood vessels. It can slow you down and keep you from activities you enjoy.

Warning Signs of PAD

• Pain in the legs and feet when walking
• Weakness or fatigue in the legs and feet
• Numbness, tingling, or cold sensation in the legs and feet
• Ulcers or sores that don't heal on legs and feet

These signs are not normal signs of aging. Even if you're not at high risk for heart attack or stroke, see a doctor now. PAD can also lead to gangrene and amputation.

Risk Factors for PAD

• Smoking
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Family history of heart or vascular disease
• Being overweight
• Lack of exercise or physical activity
• Age over 50

Medication and diet/lifestyle changes can reduce the risks posed by many of these factors. At the Center for Endovascular Surgery, we'll show you how to reduce or eliminate PAD by adopting a healthy lifestyle.